With the NFL draft right around the corner, the obvious question that looms is who will the Jets select? There are exactly 73 days until the draft, but who's counting, and I assure you organization's are wasting no time evaluating talent. As the scouting combine comes to a close, we start to form a better grasp on who will exceed at the next level. There have been many standouts and many underachievers to thus point. The Jets own the 18th overall pick in May's draft, as well as a second-rounder and 2 third-round picks in the first 3 rounds alone. I can almost guarantee that this draft will feature a change in tactics for the Jets. The last offensive first-round selection for the Jets was Mark Sanchez in 2009, since then the team has selected strictly defensive prospects (Kyle Wilson in 2010, Muhammed Wilkerson in 2011, Quinton Coples in 2012, and Dee Milliner/Sheldon Richardon in 2013). A lack of drafting early-round offensive talent has largely influenced the Jets offensive demise. Expect the team to go out this year targeting elite offensive talent early in the draft. I would like to see the Jets take these prospects come May:
Round 1:
18th Overall - Eric Ebron (TE - UNC)
Although every fan would love to see Mike Evans or Sammy Watkins name called on draft day, it is highly unlikely the wide receivers will still be there for the Jets to take. After absolutely killing it at the combine, selecting Ebron would be anything but "settling". Ebron stands at 6'4" and weighs in at 230, giving him okay size to work with at the NFL level, and likely serving as his major flaw heading into draft time. He also does tend to struggle at times blocking. What Ebron lacks in size he makes up for in athleticism. Clocking in at 4.60 seconds on his 40-yard dash and jumping 120 inches on his broad jump proves just how athletic Ebron is. He possesses the speed and athleticism to become an instant starter for the Jets. He will add much needed play making ability to a team that lacks play making ability to be polite.
Round 2:
Brandin Cooks (WR - Oregon St.)
Cooks absolutely nailed his combine, widely considered to be one of the most impressive prospects to participate. Undersized at 5'10" and 190 pounds, Cooks owns the speed to make up for his lack of size and then some running a jaw-dropping 4.33 40-yard dash at the combine! Durability is not an issue for Cooks which is promising for the youngster, especially taking his lack of size into account. Light on his feet and extremely elusive, Cooks can provide a great contribution to the team in the slot, along with Jeremy Kerley, and on some outside play. He does struggle in blocking and has small hands, but his play making ability and lighting speed makes him a worthwhile roll of the dice for the Jets.
Round 3:
Dri Archer (RB - Kent St.)
Assuming Archer is still on the board the Jets must take a chance on this combine standout. Archer performed like a stud on his combine day, running an astonishing 4.26 40-yard dash! Yes, you heard right, that was a 4.26! It is true Archer cannot cary the load out of the backfield at the NFL level but he would be an excellent compliment out of the backfield to Chris Ivory's bruising style of running. His long-term durability is his greatest concern, as his narrow thin frame does not do him any favors. With top-end speed, acceleration, and elusiveness Archer is a great gamble to take. He will immediately help the team in the return game, and add some explosiveness and big-play ability to a team that has almost none.
Craig Loston (FS - LSU)
It's no secret the Jet's lack of safety play last season severely hurt their secondary. An upgrade at safety is a must and Loston should be the guy the team takes. Loston is a big man for a safety at 6'0" and 215 pounds. He likes to assert his size on the field through his big hitting ability, mostly lining up in the box making him a perfect fit for coach Rex Ryan's blitz happy schemes. What Loston lacks in coverage skills he makes up for with a great football IQ, a hard-working demeanor, and very coachable personality. Also, one word to describe Loston is versatile. The kid can line up at a variety of spots, although excelling inside the box as stated earlier. If available drafting Lofton is a must, as he will provide the team with leadership and solid physical safety play in the secondary for years to come.
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